Your investment account choice can determine how much tax you pay and what you can invest in. It’s well worth understanding the differences between a brokerage account, an individual savings account (ISA), and a general investment account (GIA).
Big ideas
A brokerage account, ISA, or GIA will be more or less suitable depending on investor preferences. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
The main difference between the brokerage, ISA and GIA comes from the tax implications.
Each account has multiple subcategories to suit individuals, so comparisons are not direct.
QUOTE
“One way to make sure you don't lose assets in the future is to streamline your accounts. Consider using one bank for all your banking needs and one brokerage firm for all your investments.”
As a general overview, the ISA is the most common option for UK savers and investors to lower their overall tax burden, and it’s popular for this very reason. Most financial advisors recognise ISA tax benefits in the UK.
The GIA allows for investment in a range of products but does not offer the same tax benefits as the ISA. As such, UK residents are often advised to use a GIA when they have reached their ISA tax limit.
The brokerage account stands in its own category. There are a wide range of brokerage accounts used to actively invest in a number of financial products. They often come with charting and analysis tools as well as a wide number of features for the more active investor.
What is a brokerage account and how does it work?
A brokerage account is a type of financial account that allows you, as an individual, to buy and sell a wide variety of financial assets. This includes stocks, bonds, funds, and various other securities. Brokerage accounts can be opened with robo advisors, discount brokers, and full-service brokers. Some brokers offer a mix of all these types of services. Each comes with distinct fees for trade execution and fund management.
You open a brokerage account with a broker (short for brokerage firm) that acts as an intermediary between you as an individual and the financial markets. The broker facilitates the buying and selling of financial assets on your behalf and may also provide research and investment advice to help make informed investment decisions.

Brokers may charge fees or commissions for their services, and account holders may be required to maintain a minimum balance or meet other requirements to keep the account active. Some brokerage accounts also offer additional features, such as margin trading, options trading, and other advanced investment strategies. In the modern era, there are many UK brokerage accounts to choose from, as well as international options. Trading212 offers a large selection of zero-commission stocks and fractional shares via both GIA (Invest) and ISA accounts. You can usually sign up with a brokerage regardless of your country of origin, but this can have different tax and legal implications. ISAs are available only to UK residents. The main brokerage account taxes
When you open a brokerage account and invest in assets such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs, you are subject to taxes on any gains and income earned on those investments.
DISCLAIMER
The taxes you pay depend on the type of investment and your individual tax circumstances, such as your income level and tax bracket, and may be subject to change.
Here are some of the taxes you may need to consider when you hold a brokerage account:
Capital gains tax - this is the tax you pay on the profits you make from selling an asset for more than you paid for it. If you hold an asset for more than one year before selling it, it is considered a long-term capital gain, and the tax rate is typically lower than for short-term gains.
Dividend tax - if you receive dividends from your investments, you may need to pay taxes on that income. The tax rate for dividends depends on your income level and whether the dividends are considered qualified or non-qualified.
Interest income tax - if you earn interest on investments such as bonds or cash holdings, you will need to pay taxes on that income. The tax rate for interest income also depends on your income level.
Estate tax - if you pass away with assets in your brokerage account, those assets may be subject to estate taxes, which are taxes on the transfer of property after your death. The estate tax rate and exemptions depend on the value of your estate and your individual circumstances.
The brokerage account - additional considerations
When dealing with any kind of account - brokerage, ISA, or GIA - it’s important to get to know the subcategories and specific terms and conditions of each one. There can be a big variety between account providers, and each relationship is unique. Consider the following before your brokerage account opening:
Types of brokerage accounts - there are different types of brokerage accounts, such as individual brokerage accounts, joint brokerage accounts, retirement accounts (like Individual Retirement Accounts), and education savings accounts (like 529 plans). Each type of account has its own rules as well as pros and cons.
Account minimums - many brokerage firms require a minimum deposit to open a brokerage account and a minimum to maintain it. This amount can vary widely depending on the broker and the type of account.
Fees and commissions - brokerage firms may charge fees for services like account maintenance, account transfers, and paper statements. They may also charge commissions on trades, which can vary depending on the type of investment being bought or sold.
Investment options - most brokerage accounts offer a variety of investment types, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, and options. Some brokers may specialise in certain types of investments or offer proprietary products.
Investment advice - some brokerage firms offer investment advice to their clients through online tools, financial advisors, or both. This advice can include recommendations on which investments to buy or sell based on an individual's goals, risk tolerance, and other factors.
Margin accounts - a few brokerages permit investors to borrow cash from the dealer to shop for investments, referred to as margin trading.
Investor protection - brokerage accounts are typically insured by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC), which protects against the loss of cash and securities held by a customer at a brokerage firm in case the firm goes bankrupt or fails for some other reason.
Brokerage account types - pros and cons
There are several types of UK brokerage accounts available, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on an individual's investment goals, financial situation, and risk tolerance. This is why it can be a little difficult to compare the brokerage vs the ISA vs the GIA, as it’s often not an apples to apples comparison.
Brokerage account pros:
✔️ No income limits
✔️ Unlimited contributions
✔️ Unlimited investment options
✔️ Withdrawal at any time with no penalty
✔️ Spend proceeds on anything you want
✔️No or low fee options with most brokerages
Brokerage account cons:
❌ You are taxed on the gains (possibly at lower long-term capital gains rates)
Plus, UK brokerage accounts can be a little different from those in the USA and other regions. Here are some of the main brokerage account types:
Individual Brokerage Account - an individual brokerage account is a standard account opened by a single person. The investor has full autonomy over investment decisions. The main advantage of this type of account is the flexibility and control it provides, but the downside is that the account holder is solely responsible for any investment decisions and potential losses.
Joint Brokerage Account - a joint brokerage account is opened by two or more individuals, such as a married couple or business partners. This type of account allows for joint investment decisions, but it can also create some arguments if the account holders have different goals or risk tolerances. Joint accounts can be set up as either joint tenants with right of survivorship (JTWROS) or tenants in common (TIC), which affects how the account is distributed if one account holder passes away.
Retirement Accounts - retirement accounts, such as Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) in the USA or workplace pension and the SIPP (self-invested personal pension) in the UK, offer tax advantages for individuals saving for retirement. The main advantage of retirement accounts is the tax benefits, but the downside is that there are often restrictions on when and how the money can be withdrawn.
Education Savings Accounts - these accounts, including 529 plans in the USA, help people to save specifically for education. Contributions to these accounts are typically tax-deductible, and withdrawals used for qualified education expenses are tax-free. The main advantage of these accounts is the tax benefits, but the downside is that the money can only be used for education expenses.
Managed Accounts - managed accounts are brokerage accounts in which an investment advisor manages the investments on behalf of the account holder. The advisor may use a combination of individual stocks, bonds, and mutual funds to create a portfolio tailored to the individual's goals and risk tolerance. The main advantage of managed accounts is the professional management, but the downside is that the fees for the advisor's services can be higher than for other types of brokerage accounts.
Margin Accounts - margin accounts allow investors to borrow money from the broker to buy securities. A larger position can amplify any gains but also increase the risk of losses. The main advantage of margin accounts is the increased buying power, but the downside is the increased risk and potential for losses.
It's important to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of each type of brokerage account before opening one, and to consult with a financial advisor if needed to determine which type of account is best suited to an individual's needs and goals. Brokerage account tax reporting also varies depending on the type as well as total amount invested.
What is an ISA? ISA pros and cons
An ISA, or Individual Savings Account, is a tax-efficient savings and investment account available in the United Kingdom. The gains and income earned on investments held within an ISA account are tax-free, and there are annual limits on the amount that can be invested in each type of ISA. For the 2023/24 tax year, the annual ISA allowance is £20,000.There are four types of ISA in the UK. Cash ISAs are savings accounts where the interest earned is tax-free. These accounts are similar to regular savings accounts, but they offer the benefit of tax-free interest. Cash ISAs generally offer lower returns than investment ISAs but are considered lower risk.Stocks and Shares ISAs allow individuals to invest in a range of investments, including shares, bonds, and funds, where the returns are tax-free. Investment ISAs are generally considered to have higher potential returns than Cash ISAs but come with more risk.Innovative Finance ISAs (IF ISAs) are a relatively new type of ISA that allows individuals to invest in peer-to-peer (P2P) loans or other alternative investments. The returns from these investments are tax-free. IF ISAs are generally considered to have higher potential returns than Cash ISAs but come with more risk.Lifetime ISAs (LISAs) were introduced in 2017 to help individuals save for their first home or for retirement. Individuals can save up to £4,000 per year into a LISA and receive a government bonus of 25% on their contributions. The returns from a LISA are tax-free, but there are penalties for withdrawing the money before the age of 60 or for any reason other than buying a first home. KEY TAKEAWAYS
Cash ISA - a fixed interest rate savings account that allows your money to grow free from tax.
Stocks and Shares ISAs - a special kind of ISA that lets you trade shares, funds, bonds and more. Any growth is free from tax.
Innovative Finance ISA - a special kind of ISA used for peer-to-peer loans. You "lend" your savings to a borrower for a pre-agreed return. Any growth is free from tax.
Lifetime ISA - a special kind of ISA designed for buying a home or retirement. The government will add a 25% bonus of up to £1,000 each year. Any growth is free from tax.
ISA pros
✔️ Tax-efficient - ISAs offer tax-free interest or investment returns, which can help individuals keep more of their money.
✔️ Flexibility - ISAs offer a range of investment options, including cash savings, stocks and shares, peer-to-peer lending, and more.
✔️ Savings incentives - some ISAs offer additional incentives, such as government bonuses or high-interest rates.
✔️ No capital gains tax - any gains made on investments within an ISA are exempt from capital gains tax.
✔️ Easy access to funds - unlike pensions, funds held in most ISAa can be accessed at any time without penalty.
ISA cons
❌ Annual limits - there are annual limits on how much an individual can invest in an ISA, which can limit the potential for savings or investments.
❌ Limited investment options - some types of ISAs, such as cash ISAs, offer limited investment options and lower returns.
❌ Risk - some investment ISAs, such as stocks and shares ISAs, carry a higher level of risk than cash ISAs.
❌ Fees - some ISAs charge fees, including management fees or transaction fees.
❌ Eligibility - not everyone is eligible for ISAs, and eligibility may be dependent on factors such as residency status or age.
What is a GIA? GIA pros and cons
GIA stands for General Investment Account, which is a type of non-tax-advantaged investment account that allows individuals to invest in a wide range of investments, such as shares, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs. Unlike tax-advantaged accounts like ISAs, money invested in a GIA is subject to tax on any gains and income earned on the investments.
GIAs offer more flexibility compared to tax-advantaged accounts, as there are no limits on the amount you can invest or withdraw at any time and no restrictions on the types of investments you can hold. Additionally, there are no penalties for withdrawing funds from a GIA account.
Summary Q&A
Is a GIA better than an ISA?
- Not really, it's more like a complement to it.
Can I have more than one GIA?
- Yes, you can have multiple GIAs.
Does a GIA have any tax benefits?
- No, there are no tax benefits.
What is the best reason to invest in GIA?
- When an ISA is not an option or an ISA allowance has been reached.
What is the best reason to invest in an ISA?
- Tax advantages!
However, since investments held in a GIA are subject to tax on any gains and income earned, they may be less tax-efficient compared to tax-advantaged accounts like ISAs. Additionally, if you are a higher-rate taxpayer, you may be subject to higher taxes on the gains and income earned on investments held in a GIA account.
Overall, GIAs can be a good option for individuals who have used up their ISA allowances or who want more flexibility in their investments. However, it's important to consider the tax implications carefully and to consult with a financial advisor before opening a GIA account.
GIA pros
✔️ Flexibility - with a GIA, you have the flexibility to invest in a wide range of assets, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs, without any contribution or withdrawal restrictions.
✔️ No contribution limits - unlike ISAs, there are no caps on how much you can invest in a GIA account, so you can invest as much money as you want as often as you like.
✔️ No withdrawal restrictions - you can withdraw your money from a GIA account at any time without penalty, unlike some other tax-advantaged accounts that have early withdrawal penalties.
✔️ No requirement to declare on tax return - You don't have to report income or gains from a GIA account on your tax return until you sell an asset and realize a gain.
GIA cons
❌ Taxation - one of the main disadvantages of a GIA is that any income or gains earned on investments held within the account are subject to tax at your applicable tax rate. This can reduce your overall investment returns.
❌ Estate tax - if you pass away with assets in your GIA account, those assets may be subject to estate taxes, which are taxes on the transfer of property after your death.
❌ No tax advantages - unlike tax-advantaged accounts like ISAs, pensions, and 401(k)s, a GIA does not offer any tax benefits or incentives.
❌ No protection against market volatility - investments held within a GIA account are subject to market volatility and fluctuations, which can result in losses.
Differences between brokerage account and ISA
The main difference between a brokerage account and an ISA (Individual Savings Account) is the tax treatment of the investments held within each account.
A brokerage account is a general investment account that allows individuals to invest in a wide range of assets (stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, etc). The capital gains earned on investments in a brokerage account are subject to tax at the individual's applicable capital gain tax (CGT) rate. There are no limits on the amount that can be invested.
On the other hand, an ISA is a tax-advantaged savings and investment account that allows individuals to invest in a range of assets, such as cash, stocks and shares, and innovative financial products.
In summary, while a brokerage account and an ISA allow individuals to invest in a range of assets, the main difference is the tax treatment of the investments held within each account. A brokerage account is subject to tax on the gains and income earned, while an ISA is tax-advantaged and offers tax-free gains and income.
Differences between brokerage account and GIA
A brokerage account is more of an international catch-all phrase that can include a general investment account (GIA) or specific accounts like gold trading or CFD trading accounts. A GIA is a specific type of brokerage account for investing in the United Kingdom.
A brokerage account is usually used to invest in the same assets used in a GIA. There are also specific types of brokerage accounts to invest in alternative investments such as commodities, wine or collectables.
QUOTE
“Saving must become a priority, not just a thought. Pay yourself first.”
Neither a GIA account or a general brokerage account are tax-advantaged, and the gains and income earned on investments are subject to tax at the individual's applicable tax rate.
Recap
UK taxpayers are usually advised to first use the ISA for their investing due to its tax advantages. The ISA is very popular in the UK with no extra charges, providing a simple tax shelter for residents. When the limit is used up (£20,000), UK residents can then open a GIA. In many ways, the GIA can be said to complement the ISA.
Brokerage accounts are a little different from both ISAs and GIAs. A brokerage account is a more general term to describe any account that uses a broker to invest. There is a wider range of securities available than an ISA or GIA. They can often come with robo-advisor capabilities and/or specific charting tools for traders and investors.
There are many subcategories of brokerage accounts, ISAs, and GIAs, and individual research is required before making a decision.
FAQ
Q: How to get a brokerage account?
Step one would be to identify what it is that you’re looking for. There is an account and investment vehicle for practically anything in the modern era, but you have to make sure to identify what you want. After this, it’s a matter of doing research into the different brokerage firms to see which one matches your preferences. Trading 212 offers UK and international investors the chance to invest in stocks and ETFs commission-free.
When you have selected a brokerage firm, you will be required to fill out an application form with all of your personal details, such as name, date of birth, address, tax identifier, etc. Once you have filled out the application form, you merely have to fund the account, select investments, and monitor your losses and returns. Brokerage account opening is usually a straightforward process.
Q: Which brokerage account is best?
There is no real “best” brokerage account. You will want to consider the fees associated with a given brokerage type alongside the tax implications, which can significantly affect your returns over time. You’ll also want to consider the investment options to see if the brokerage accounts match what you are looking for.
Other criteria include the level of customer service and how easy it is to withdraw funds. It can be very frustrating to be heavily penalized for withdrawing funds, but this is more common with pension plans as opposed to brokerage accounts. Also keep in mind that the brokerage account transfers are sometimes not so smooth.
Q: How many brokerage accounts can I have?
There is no upper limit to your number of brokerage accounts. But it ultimately comes down to how manageable it is. Putting your funds into one or perhaps two trusted brokerage accounts is much easier than splitting funds across several accounts. Unless you have specific reasons for doing so, holding many brokerage accounts is probably unnecessary.
Q: Are brokerage accounts insured?
Brokerage accounts are not insured by the government in the same way that bank accounts are in the UK. This is usually the case in other counties too, but rules will vary by country. According to UK regulators, an investment account is a ‘risk-based’ investment rather than savings, so a different FSCS protection scheme applies.
Stocks and shares ISAs, as well as brokerage accounts, fall under the bracket of investments, so 100% of the first £50,000 is protected per banking authorisation. Cash ISAs are protected like a current account for deposits up to £85,000 (or £170,000 for joint accounts). Nominee accounts are also covered for deposits up to £85,000.
Q: How do ISA accounts work?
ISAs were introduced in 1999 in the UK. While they bear resemblances to the standard savings account, the major benefit is that no tax is paid on earned interest. Standard cash ISAs are broken down into different subcategories, including easy access, regular savings, notice accounts, and fixed-rate savings accounts. The purpose of the ISA is essentially to incentivise people to save.
The appeal of ISAs will vary over time owing to changes in the interest that can be earned in a standard savings account. The Personal Savings Allowance (PSA) allows taxpayers to earn a £1,000 tax fee anyway, reducing the appeal of the ISA.
Q: Do I pay tax on ISA withdrawals?
No, you do not have to pay tax on ISA withdrawals. Any withdrawals you make from an ISA account are tax-free, including capital gains or income. This tax-free status applies to all ISA variants. However, it's important to note that there may be penalties for withdrawing funds from certain types of ISAs before a certain age or before the end of a fixed term.
For example, there may be penalties for withdrawing funds from a lifetime ISA before age 60 or for withdrawing funds from a fixed-rate cash ISA before the end of the fixed term. Additionally, any funds withdrawn from an ISA account cannot be replaced within the same tax year without using up additional ISA allowance.